Giovani, 23, joined Tottenham from Barcelona in 2008 but despite impressive displays with the Mexico national team, has struggled to make an impact at White Hart Lane, making just two Premier League starts. He has been in limbo for three consecutive summers, unable to arrange a permanent departure from White Hart Lane.

He has been on loan at Ipswich Town, Galatasaray and Racing Santander while on Spurs' books, and is moving into the final year of his deal. This transfer window could represent the last chance for the North London club to recoup some of the £4.7 million they paid Barca.

The midfielder, who is currently with Mexico at the Olympic Games in London, has been linked to a return to Spain with Malaga.

But Villas-Boas is angry that the player has chosen to go public with his desire to find a new club. He said: "I am not sure what Gio's thought process was, coming out with a statement like that.

"The player is contracted to the club. We respect him and are counting on him to return to club duty. Then we will make a decision that is best for the club."

Meanwhile, Spurs have issued a statement refuting claims that Gareth Bale was kept out of the Team GB squad under false pretences. Bale was not considered for selection due to a back injury but played and scored for Spurs against Toronto before Stuart Pearce's side had played their first Olympics group match.

The statement read: "The club considers the recent comment and accusations regarding Gareth Bale's fitness relating to his non-selection for Team GB to be wholly unacceptable and unjustified. At no time was Gareth made unavailable for selection."